Family members say former Arkansas governor and U.S. Sen. David Pryor is recovering in a hospital after suffering a stroke.

The family issued a statement Tuesday saying the 82-year-old Pryor suffered a stroke Monday and underwent surgery "that appears to have been successful."

The Democrat was Arkansas' governor from 1975 to 1979, and then served nearly 20 years in the U.S. Senate. He now serves on the board of trustees for the University of Arkansas.

His son, former U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor, said in a statement that the family is "hopeful for a full and quick recovery." He also requested prayers and privacy for his family, adding that "the next 48 hours are critical in my father's care."